Caviar is one of the ultimate indulgences in the culinary world. Beyond its prestigious associations, caviar boasts a fascinating history that leads all the way back to ancient traditions and its origins in the Caspian Sea. The name and reputation proceed and too few people have had the luxury to experience it. However, there’s no need to travel to far-off places or seek out reservations at the world’s finest restaurants to experience caviar, experts such as The Caviar Company can curate and serve even the most bespoke caviar palate.
Founded in 2017 by two lifelong enthusiasts with more than 60 years of expertise in caviar, The Caviar Company, aims to bring the finest caviar, sourced from across the globe, straight to the consumer’s doorstep. The company’s ethos is focussed on delivering the highest quality caviar through ethical processes and from fully certified farms with CITES certification. What’s more, they offer free next day delivery in the UK and international shipping to prioritise the quality of the experience.
Here, The Caviar Company take a closer look at why caviar is so popular around the world with discerning palates, highlight the key types of caviar and pick out three mouthwatering recipes to try at home.
The romance of caviar
Black caviar is revered for its luxurious taste and texture, it’s the image that springs to mind when we hear the words caviar first mentioned. It’s the symbol of extravagance and opulence in the culinary world. Caviar’s association with luxury and prestige goes back centuries, from ancient Roman feasts to European royalty, much like fine wine, it’s the history that adds to its romance and mystery.
For millennia, caviar has been revered for its unique taste and supposed health benefits, securing its status as a delicacy treasured by civilisations throughout history. Its roots can be traced to the ancient Persians, who first harvested fish roe, caviar’s transformation into a royal indulgence was then cemented by the Russian tsars. Over time caviar became a marker of sophistication, initially desired by the European elites and later the Hollywood high society. Today, there remains a mystic around caviar, which has ensured its luxury legacy.
Types of caviar
When it comes to types of caviar there’s a huge variety on offer, some with more of an acquired taste than others, but understanding the landscape without trying to be caviar connoisseur is the first step needed.
Beluga caviar
It’s the most renowned, this premium variety boasts large, glossy pale silver eggs and a rich, buttery taste with subtle notes of hazelnut.
Osetra caviar
This luxurious type of caviar is harvested from the Osetra sturgeon, with medium to large-sized eggs and a diverse colour palette that spans from amber to dark brown. Osetra is celebrated for its distinctive nutty and briny flavour.
Sevruga caviar
Smaller and firmer than other varieties, Sevruga caviar has a robust, bold flavour with a hint of the sea.
Sevruga caviar
The compact and flavourful option, Sevruga boasts tiny, dark grey eggs that pack a punch of briny flavour. Perfect for those who crave a bold and intense taste experience.
Siberian caviar
Known for its medium-sized, dark grey eggs and a flavour that is both delicate and robust, Siberian caviar is a more approachable option for caviar connoisseurs. A well-balanced taste for a wide range of palates.
Three recipes for success
Caviar is versatile and there are many ways to bring this unique taste to the table, especially around the upcoming festive season. Here are three ways that caviar can simply come to life.
Classic caviar blini
A marriage of delicate and indulgent flavours, this recipe pairs feather-light blinis with a luxurious dollop of crème fraiche and a lavish helping of Osetra caviar. The creamy crème fraiche and the umami pop of the caviar create a symphony of textures and flavours.
Caviar devilled eggs
Transform the humble devilled egg into a masterpiece by incorporating Sevruga caviar into the filling. The tangy bite of the caviar perfectly complements the richness of the egg yolk, creating a savoury and elegant bite.
Caviar and smoked salmon canapés
These bite-sized delights combine thin slices of smoky salmon, a dollop of crème fraiche and a spoonful of Siberian caviar. The smokiness of the salmon and the briny notes of the caviar complement each other perfectly.
